With the January window nearing, Celtic FC is already working on strategies to improve its squad for the second half of the season. Rodgers has identified key areas where he wants to strengthen the squad. With significant focus being placed on the forward line.
Winger Acquisition Is Priority
The priority is to sign a new winger. The urgency comes on the back of the recent injuries to James Forrest. Now out for six weeks, and Nicolas Kuhn, who is nursing a knee problem. They’re been linked with a number of potential targets, including Antwerp’s Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Union Saint-Gilloise star Mohammed Fuseini. Interest in Mathias Kvistgaarden of Brondby has also said to be rekindled. Rodgers has held positive talks with major share-holder Dermot Desmond and is ready to move quickly in the transfer market.
Carter-Vickers and Tierney Decent Options Generally
Celtic also comes with its own challenges and opportunities defensively. Central defender Cameron Carter-Vickers is being linked with a move to Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen. Although he was tied to a contract until 2029 and he was happy at Celtic. Leverkusen’s interest could provide a test of the club’s resolve. But Celtic don’t have to worry about any approaches for the key man just yet, according to reports.
Left-back Kieran Tierney could also return from Arsenal, a rumoured boost for the defence. His interest in a reunion with the 26-year-old could help shore up the side’s defensive solidity.
Southampton eyeing Ben Tahirovic as potential midfield signing
Celtic also looks to reinforce the midfield. In addition to Kvaratskhelia, club allegedly linked with Ajax midfielder Benjamin Tahirovic Signed from Roma for £6 million in 2023, the 21-year-old Bosnian international has fallen out of favour this season to make him exactly the kind of player who may be on the Hoops’ radar.
Contract Negotiations and Potential Departures
And on the other side, left-back Alexandro Bernabei is looking to make his loan from Internacional permanent. Internacional have submitted an offer to Celtic for a second loan attempt but are not prepared to reach the £7 million demand set by the Scottish club. On the other hand, Greg Taylor’s contract is coming to a conclusion as well, meaning he is free to speak to other teams. New Dinamo Zagreb manager Fabio Cannavaro has a specific interest in Taylor that Celtic must resolve regarding the latter’s contract.
Strategic Outlook
The next transfer window will reveal Celtic’s next steps in this mission but the proactive nature of the club suggests they have no intentions of letting their domestic dominance slip and are craving further investment to help them perform better in Europe. The aims are clear, and the target of having a strong squad able to compete at the top should be achieved through action on each of these points and very careful forward management of player contracts when required.
